The Michelin Latitude Sport tire is a popular choice for crossover and SUV drivers who want exceptional control and traction, especially on dry pavement. This summer tire performs well at high speeds, offering a smooth and quiet ride.
Quick Facts:
- Type: Passenger Summer Tire
- Sizes: 17’’, 18’’, 19’’, 20’’, 21’’
- Uniform Tire Quality Grade (UTQG): 220AA
- Speed Rating: V, W, Y
- Warranty: 6-Year, 20,000-Mile Limited Warranty
- Price: $$$$
What Sets It Apart
The biggest feature that sets this tire apart is its ability to tightly grip the road, even at high speeds. Depending on the specific size you choose, these tires are rated for speeds of 149-186 miles per hour, which should be more than enough for just about everyone. This is made all the more impressive by the fact that these tires are going on SUVs, crossovers, and other larger vehicles.
This great control at high speeds is made possible in large part thanks to the Michelin FAZ technology, which helps to reinforce the filaments that are located directly under the tread. The tread design on these tires is also pulled directly from one of the most iconic tires in the Michelin lineup, the Pilot Sport PS2. Of course, with great performance comes a higher price, so keep that in mind. Also, these are summer tires, so make sure you pick up a set of winter tires to swap with if you live in an area with snowy seasons.
Comfort and Performance
There is nothing to complain about when it comes to the comfort and performance of these tires. They are designed to provide you with an exceptionally smooth and quiet ride, no matter how you’re driving. In fact, many people find that when they first put these tires on, they end up speeding down the road faster than they intended because the ride is so much quieter and more comfortable than their previous tires.
Even if you do happen to be going a little faster than you expected, you will remain in complete control. These are race-inspired tires, and it shows when you are taking a corner or pushing the gas to get up to speed on the highways. Simply put, these tires really do a great job at allowing you to have a fun (and safe) experience every time you take your vehicle out on the road.
Safety and Durability
These tires are going to provide you with a very safe ride thanks to the fact that they grip the road so well. If you are on dry pavement, you will really feel the exceptional control you have with every turn, no matter how severe. They also maintain high levels of grip even when it is raining thanks to the proven tread pattern.
When it comes to durability, there are a few concerns. To start with, you are only getting a 20,000-mile warranty on these tires, which is a little disappointing. While they do say it is a “6-year, 20,000-mile warranty,” almost nobody will put on fewer than 20k miles in six years, even if they are only driving on them in the summer.
This is not just an example of an underwhelming warranty on an otherwise durable tire. When you get up into that 20,000-mile range, it will definitely be time to buy something new. The tread that provides such great performance does wear out more quickly than you would like.
Who It’s For
This is the perfect tire for anyone who enjoys driving a sporty SUV or crossover and wants to be able to drive for hours without any tire raddle or loud noises. Whether you are driving 35 in the city, 70 on the highway, or 100+ on an open road (don’t worry, we won’t tell), you will benefit from the incredible traction, which is why they are such a popular tire for more aggressive drivers.
As long as you keep in mind that these are true summer tires and get them swapped out before any snow hits, you will undoubtedly be thrilled with the way they perform. In addition to providing you with great control, these tires also look great while rolling down the road. Many people love the racing inspired straight line tread, and the mid-level tire depth that gives your SUV or crossover a bold look and feel.
